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Have you ever been worried about someone editing a Salesforce record while you’re in the middle of updating it? Salesforce’s Lock Record action in Flow gives you the power to lock or unlock a record and even control who can edit it while it’s locked.

This simple yet effective feature can make your processes smoother and your data more secure.

In this post, we’ll explore why and how to use this feature to keep your records safe during updates.

Why Use Lock Record?

Imagine you’re working on a critical update to a record. If someone else tries to edit it simultaneously, it could create conflicts or inconsistencies. That’s where the Lock Record action comes to the rescue! It ensures:

• Controlled updates: Prevent unauthorized or accidental edits during critical operations.
• Enhanced security: Limit access data while it’s being updated.
• Streamlined processes: Allow only authorized users to make changes during specific workflows.

This feature is especially useful for scenarios like Screen Flows, Record-triggered Flows or critical data changes that require a controlled environment.

How to Lock a Record in Flow

Locking a record using Flow is straightforward. Follow these steps to set it up:

1. Create Your Flow
   Start by designing a Flow that includes a step where a record needs to be locked.
2. Add an Action Element
   In your Flow, drag an Action element.
3. Search for the Lock Record Action
   Look for the Lock Record action in the list of available actions.
4. Set the Action to Lock
   In the Action field, enter Lock to specify the operation.
5. Provide the Record ID
   In the Record Id field, include the ID of the record you want to lock. This could be a dynamic variable.
6. Allow Specific Users to Edit (Optional)
   If you want certain users to still edit the locked record, do the following:
   • Choose Included in the configuration options.
   • Add the Allowed Id for the user, such as {!$User.Id}, which dynamically references the current user running the Flow.

How to Unlock a Record in Flow

Unlocking a record is just as easy as locking it. Here’s how:

1. Add Another Action Element
   Drag another Action element into your Flow.
2. Search for Lock Record Again
   Select the Lock Record action, just as you did earlier.
3. Set the Action to Unlock
   In the Action field, enter Unlock.
4. Provide the Record ID
   Use the Record Id field to specify the record you want to unlock.

That’s it! The record will now be accessible to all users with the appropriate permissions.

Practical Example

Let’s say you’re automating a process to update the status of a case record. Here’s how you can use the Lock Record action:

1. Lock the Record: Prevent other users from editing the case while the Flow updates its status.
2. Update the Record: Perform the necessary changes (update fields or send notifications).
3. Unlock the Record: Once the changes are complete, unlock the record so other users can access it.

Tips and Best Practices

• Use Lock Sparingly: Only lock records when absolutely necessary.
• Document Your Flows: Make sure your team understands why a record is locked at specific points in the process.
• Test in a Sandbox: Always test your Flow in a sandbox environment to ensure it works as intended.

Final Thoughts

The ability to lock and unlock records in Salesforce Flow is a game-changer for managing data integrity and process control. By using the Lock Record action, you can create smarter, safer, and more reliable automation.

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